Brown Family Cruise

Yes, a valid passport is required for all international cruises.  For closed-loop cruises (starting and ending at the same U.S. port), a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID may be acceptable, but a passport is strongly encouraged. 

Your fare typically includes accommodations, most dining options, onboard entertainment, access to pools and fitness center, and standard room service.  Specialty dining, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, alcoholic beverages, and gratuities may cost extra unless part of a promotion or package. 

Travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for international cruises. It can protect you against trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, baggage loss, and more — especially important when traveling by sea where healthcare options are limited. 

Modern cruise ships have stabilizers that reduce motion. If you're prone to motion sickness, consider booking a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck and bring remedies like Dramamine, acupressure bands, or patches.

Unless part of a promotion (like “Have It All”), gratuities are automatically added to your onboard account:

• $17.50/day per person (non-suite)
• $19.00/day per person (suite)

Yes, Wi-Fi packages are available for purchase.  Speeds may vary depending on location and ship activity.  Packages range from basic social browsing to premium streaming. 

You can book excursions through the cruise line or independently.  Cruise-sponsored tours guarantee you’ll get back to the ship on time. Independent tours can be cheaper but riskier for delays  

Guests 21+ may bring one bottle of wine or champagne (750ml) per person at embarkation. Additional bottles are subject to a corkage fee. Beer and spirits are not allowed. 

 Yes. Cruise lines follow strict safety protocols and conduct mandatory safety drills. Always wash hands frequently and follow health guidelines to avoid illnesses.

Expect Broadway-style shows, live music (including B.B. King's Blues Club), BBC Earth experiences, comedy, cooking demonstrations, and enrichment lectures. 

Bring casual resort wear, swimwear, comfortable shoes, formal attire (for Gala Nights), and weather-appropriate outerwear.  Don’t forget sunscreen, medications, power adapters, and travel documents.

Yes, most cruises of 7 nights or more will have 1–2 Gala Nights.  Suggested attire is cocktail dresses, skirts, dress pants, or suits/jackets for men. On other nights, smart casual is fine.

The ship operates on a cashless system.  Your onboard expenses are charged to your stateroom account, which you fund with a credit/debit card or cash at embarkation. 

Your boarding time will be assigned in your cruise documents (usually 1–3 hours before departure).  Early arrival may lead to longer wait times, while late arrival could risk missing the ship. 

Yes, download the Holland America Navigator App to manage dining, excursions, daily activities, and onboard charges.  The app works without an internet plan while onboard.